Experts tout benefits of ‘house burping’
Alex Perry
Cincinnati Enquirer
USA TODAY NETWORK
It feels a little bit like spring in some parts of the country, and a breath of fresh air could bring benefits to both residents and their homes, thanks to a traditional German practice that’s ideal for the winter cold and flu season.
The practice known as 'house burping' became a popular method in Germany to help limit airborne virus particles such as COVID-19 and lower the risk of respiratory infections. Experts say it also offers several other health benefits and can make indoor spaces feel more comfortable.
Burping the home, 'lüften,' is the German practice of opening windows to let fresh air circulate and improve indoor air quality. According to experts, house burping can bring benefits to residents’ health, comfort and indoor hygiene.
Regular ventilation replaces stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, especially during cold months when people stay inside more. The practice works especially well in winter because it quickly refreshes indoor air without significant heat loss, according to House Beautiful.
'Adding volumes of outdoor air by opening windows will lower concentrations of indoor air contaminants that can make you and your family sick,' Tony Abate, a certified indoor environmentalist, told the publication.
While house burping can be especially helpful in winter, it may not be ideal during extreme heat, high-pollen seasons or for those who live near heavy traffic, House Beautiful noted.
Health benefits of house burping
House burping can help remove contaminants such as carbon dioxide buildup, dust, allergens and gases from cleaning products and air fresheners from the home. Ventilation also helps to reduce humidity and the risk of mold and mildew, especially when showering and cooking.